I Ain't Scared of You: A Tribute to Bernie Mac (2012)
I AIN'T SCARED OF YOU is a documentary tribute to Bernie Mac (1957-2008). From his stand-up in underground Chicago comedy clubs to the Big Screen in Hollywood, Bernie Mac's sharp tongue and heart of gold resonated with millions of fans throughout his career.This film revisits much of his work through exclusive recordings of early stand-up, featured scenes from his film and TV appearances, and interviews with his co-stars, including Samuel L. Jackson, Cameron Diaz, Chris Rock, and many more. Testimonials from friends and family offer colorful anecdotes about Bernie Mac, from his practical jokes to his strong appreciation for manicures, and paint a vivid picture of who he was as an actor-comedian, husband, father, and friend.
What people think about I Ain't Scared of You: A Tribute to Bernie Mac
What makes I Ain’t Scared of You special is how it lets Bernie Mac’s voice do the heavy lifting: raw early stand-up, classic clips, and that unmistakable blend of razor-edged honesty and big-hearted warmth that made him feel like family even when he was roasting you. The film carries a celebratory, laughter-through-the-lump-in-your-throat vibe, buoyed by interviews with friends, family, and famous co-stars who clearly adored the man behind the microphone. You’ll come away with vivid, often funny little insights—how certain moments happened, what he was like offstage, and why his confidence always felt earned. It’s not the most exhaustive, cradle-to-grave biography, but if you want a spirited, affectionate hangout with Bernie’s legacy, it’s an easy yes.
This documentary is clearly trying to celebrate Bernie Mac by stitching together early stand-up, familiar clips, and a parade of famous friends paying respect, and that affection does come through. The problem is it often feels like a highlight reel with sound bites—more “remember this moment?” than a satisfying deep dive into who he was, how he built his voice, or what he changed in comedy. If you’re hoping for real context, insight, or a thoughtfully structured story, you may find it thin and a bit frustrating. But if you simply want a warm, easy tribute with some enjoyable footage and heartfelt testimonials, it can still work as a quick nostalgia hit.
Cast
Bernie MacSelf (Archive footage)
Anthony AndersonSelf
Bill BellamySelf
Cedric the EntertainerSelf
Chris RockSelf
D.L. HughleySelf
Carl ReinerSelf
Steven SoderberghSelf
Andy GarciaSelf
Don CheadleSelf
Samuel L. JacksonSelf
Joe TorrySelf
Mike EppsSelf
Tom ArnoldSelf
Angela BassettSelf
Cameron DiazSelf
Zoe SaldañaSelf
Kellita SmithSelf
Crew
- Director
- Robert Small
- Editing
- Walter Schlomann
Details
- Released
- February 19, 2012
- Language
- English
- IMDb
- tt1987585
